who does everyone like this year? heat repeat? will the retooled lakers be able to stay healthy? amar'e stoudamire is already hurt. will damian lillard continue his summer and preseason dominance? other nba storylines...

I'm planning on paying attention to the NBA season as long as the NHL is locked out. I don't see how the west is anything but OKC vs. LAL and I think its Miami from the East again. I'm going with a bold prediction and calling for a Lakes vs. Heat finals (clearly no expert has predicted it, I am the first one).

and I should mention that the Wizards will continue to suck this year, probably to new, historic heights/lows.

I jump on a new team's bandwagon every year since Pittsburgh doesn't have a team. I've had good luck the past two years choosing Dallas before the 10-11 season and Oklahoma City last year. This year it's Chicago.

Watching Thunder/Spurs right now. Kevin Martin is solid off the bench, and long term I actually think the Thunder will be better off after the Harden Trade. I'll be interested to see how Houston does, and what pick OKC will get back in the draft.

Meanwhile, I'm pretty excited. Headed to the Cavs/Bulls game tomorrow to see how Kyrie follows up his 29 point performance in the opener. Was pleasantly surprised with Waiters first game. They're a young team, but actually could be very fun to watch this year.